Say Goodbye to Ego for Self Development

What is ego? The dictionary defines ego simply as “I or self of a person” or as “self-esteem” or “self-image”. Thus, just by definition, it is not a negative word. However, it is used in negative context most of the times and means excessive self-esteem or self-respect which acts as a barrier for connecting with others. Thus, in practical sense, it is a negative word because connecting with others should be one of the foremost priorities for self-development and ego, when viewed with this meaning, acts as an obstacle in self-development.

Ego converts simple situations into complex ones. Just recall how many times in the past have you meaninglessly fought with your parents or spouse on a simple issue which could have otherwise been resolved amicably, just because you didn’t want your ego getting hurt? Just check whether you have avoided speaking with any colleague in your office because you had arguments sometime ago, but would happily resume conversation if he takes initiative? If yes, then you are giving excessive importance to self-esteem and the world around you might be perceiving you as egoistic person.

Ego also stops us from realizing our shortcomings or weaknesses, as it makes us preoccupied with ourselves and doesn’t encourage us to look at ourselves from other’s perspective.

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Moreover, ego can act as a source of disappointment or grief, as it may easily get hurt. Consider a simple situation: Suppose you attend your friend’s party and he does not show much enthusiasm with your presence or take initiative to introduce you to his other guests. In that case, if you are egoistic, you would easily get disappointed and may think about leaving the party as fast as you can, would ponder over what happened even after returning to home and may even stop talking to your friend. But if you are open-minded, you may yourself take a step or two to make new friends in the party, enjoy the food and return to home happily. Thus, you would help yourself greatly if you are not egoistic.

Lastly, saying goodbye to ego can even help you in getting your work done easily. Be it your friend, a relative or a business acquaintance, he is more likely to help you if you are open-minded, polite and easily approachable. After all, people would provide help only if they perceive you as someone who too can help them in return when they are in need!